Memento Mori Hair Frame With Ivory Plaque, Initial "h," Curved Napoleon III Glass Ssl26chv003

“Memento Mori” hair frame on an ivory plaque, initial H—domed glass — Napoleon III, 19th century —SSL26CHV003

A beautiful and poignant keepsake of hair from the Napoleon III era (Second Empire), in the grand tradition of 19th-century mementos.

A long strand of light-colored hair, coiled into a neat spiral, is mounted on an oval-shaped ivory or chryselephantine plate. In the center, an initial “A” drawn in black ink in an elegant calligraphic script identifies the person for whom this keepsake was preserved. Small triangular (natural) leaf stalks are arranged at the base of the spiral, adding to the delicacy of the composition. The entire piece is protected by a domed glass cover, framed by a sheet of copper finely engraved with a frieze of palmettes.

The frame is rectangular, made of blackened wood, with a beautiful oval molding featuring an antique patina.

An object of remembrance and sentiment. In the 19th century, people preserved the hair of their loved ones as a tangible connection to them. These frames were made while the person was still alive, as a testament to love, friendship, or family bonds, or after their death, in the spirit of mourning objects (“memento mori,” remember that you must die). The single initial leaves its future owner free to interpret it as they wish: a memento of mourning, a token of love, or an object of family devotion. Well-preserved pieces of this type are sought after by collectors of mourning objects, curios, and sentimental folk art.

Good overall condition, no damage. Intact domed glass. Frame shows minor signs of wear consistent with its age.

Dimensions : approximately 10 x 9 cm (with frame)

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